Central Balkans Explorer - 19 days

Begin your adventure in the vibrant Serbian capital, Belgrade. Upon landing at Nikola Tesla Airport, a private transfer whisks you to your centrally located hotel (Hilton or similar), where you can unwind and settle in. Enjoy the rest of the day at leisure, preparing for the exciting journey ahead.

Dive into Belgrade’s dynamic spirit with a guided tour that weaves through its bustling pedestrian avenues, storied taverns, and grand fortresses. Savor authentic Serbian coffee and rakija at the city’s oldest tavern before wandering the historic Belgrade Fortress and lush Kalemegdan Park. Marvel at the city’s architectural contrasts, from the bold lines of New Belgrade to the ornate Temple of Saint Sava. The day culminates with a scenic sunset cruise along the Sava and Danube rivers, offering panoramic views of the city’s evolving skyline. Return to your hotel (Hilton or similar) for a restful evening.

Venture north into the scenic province of Vojvodina, where rolling vineyards and ancient monasteries await. Discover the spiritual tranquility of Krusedol Monastery before wandering the baroque streets of Sremski Karlovci. Sample award-winning vintages in the Fruska Gora wine region, then explore the lively heart of Novi Sad, from its grand City Hall to the imposing Petrovaradin Fortress. After a day rich in culture and flavor, return to Belgrade for another restful night at your hotel (Hilton or similar).

Cross into Romania and discover Timisoara, a city renowned for its elegant architecture and cultural vibrancy. Stroll through its historic squares and marvel at the grand opera house and national theatre. Journey onward through the scenic landscapes of Transylvania to Sibiu, a city steeped in medieval charm. Explore its cobbled squares, iconic bridges, and the impressive Brukenthal Museum before settling into your hotel (Continental Forum or similar) for the night.

Enjoy a relaxed morning in Sibiu before venturing to the Astra National Museum Complex, where traditional Romanian village life comes alive. Traverse the breathtaking Transfagarasan road, pausing for a cable car ride to the glacial Balea Lake. Arrive in Sinaia, a picturesque mountain town, and check in at your hotel (Hotel International or similar), ready to explore more of Romania’s alpine wonders.

Step into royal history with a visit to the enchanting Peles Castle, then continue to the medieval city of Brasov, where gothic towers and lively squares await. Wander through the historic center, visit the iconic Black Church, and stroll down one of the world’s narrowest streets. The adventure continues at Bran Castle, shrouded in myth and perched dramatically on a cliff. Return to Sinaia for a restful night at your hotel (Hotel International or similar).

Bid farewell to Sinaia and journey through the lush vineyards of the Dealu Mare wine region, where you’ll enjoy an exclusive tasting at a renowned estate. Arrive in Bucharest, Romania’s bustling capital, and check in at your hotel (Radisson Blu or similar). The evening is yours to explore the city’s vibrant streets or relax in comfort.

Discover Bucharest’s blend of Belle Époque elegance and modern vibrancy. Tour the monumental Palace of the Parliament, then wander the cobbled lanes of the Old Town, where centuries-old monasteries and lively streets await. Delve into Romania’s history at Revolution Square and the National Museum. In the evening, choose between a refined Art Nouveau dinner or independent exploration before returning to your hotel (Radisson Blu or similar).

Travel south to Bulgaria and explore Veliko Tarnovo, a city steeped in imperial history and artisan traditions. Continue to the charming village of Arbanasi, where you’ll stroll among centuries-old houses and richly decorated churches. Experience authentic Bulgarian hospitality with an overnight stay at Arbanashki Han (or similar), nestled in a unique ethno complex.

Immerse yourself in Bulgarian heritage at the Etar Open Air Museum, where traditional crafts and water-powered installations come to life. Discover the fragrant world of roses at the Damascena Complex in the Valley of Roses. Arrive in Plovdiv, one of Europe’s oldest cities, and wander its atmospheric Old Town, marvel at the Ancient Theatre, and soak up the creative energy of Kapana before retiring to your hotel (Hotel Imperial or similar).

Enjoy a leisurely morning in Plovdiv before traveling to Sofia, where onion-domed cathedrals, vibrant theatres, and Ottoman-era mosques create a captivating cityscape. Explore the city’s architectural gems, from the grand Saint Alexander Nevsky Cathedral to the historic Church of Saint George. Discover Sofia’s cultural heart at the National Palace of Culture and the iconic Largo before settling in for the night at your hotel (Grand Hotel Sofia or similar).

Journey back into Serbia, stopping in the historic city of Nis, birthplace of Emperor Constantine the Great. Explore the formidable Nis Fortress and stroll along the atmospheric Tinkers Alley, sampling southern Serbian delicacies. Continue to the Resava Valley to visit the fortified Manasija Monastery before arriving in Belgrade for an evening at leisure at your hotel (Hilton or similar).

Travel south to Oplenac, where the royal mausoleum and a celebrated winery await in the picturesque Sumadija region. Savor traditional wines before heading to the scenic Zlatibor Mountain, Serbia’s first royal resort. Check in at your mountain hotel (Hotel Mona or similar) and enjoy a relaxing evening sampling local cuisine and exploring the charming town center.

Experience the unique charm of Drvengrad, a handcrafted wooden village, before boarding the nostalgic Sargan Eight railway for a scenic mountain journey. Cross into Bosnia and Herzegovina to visit Visegrad and its iconic UNESCO-listed bridge, then continue to Sarajevo, where you’ll check in at your hotel (Hotel Europe or similar) for the night.

Begin your day at the Eternal Flame memorial before savoring Sarajevo’s culinary delights, from flaky burek to sweet baklava. Explore the city’s diverse religious heritage, vibrant markets, and iconic bridges. Wander through Bascarsija and discover the city’s unique blend of Ottoman, Austro-Hungarian, and modern influences. Enjoy free time in the afternoon to further explore Sarajevo’s captivating streets.

Travel to Mostar and marvel at its world-famous Old Bridge, then explore the city’s mosques, historic quarters, and artisan workshops. Continue to Trebinje, where you’ll visit the hilltop Hercegovačka Gračanica and the centuries-old Arslanagica Bridge. Stroll through Poet’s Square before checking in at your hotel (Hotel Platani or similar) for a restful evening.

Begin your day at Trebinje’s lively market before crossing into Montenegro. Explore the baroque town of Perast and take a boat to the enchanting island of Our Lady of the Rocks. Continue to Kotor, a UNESCO-listed medieval gem, where you’ll visit ancient churches and the Cathedral of Saint Tryphon. Arrive in Dubrovnik, Croatia’s iconic walled city, and check in at your hotel (Hotel Excelsior or similar).

Uncover the magic of Dubrovnik’s Old Town, where marble streets, ancient gates, and grand palaces await. Walk atop the mighty city walls, explore filming locations from Game of Thrones, and enjoy panoramic views from Srd Hill. Savor lunch overlooking the Adriatic or embark on a sunset cruise aboard a replica galleon before returning to your hotel (Hotel Excelsior or similar) for your final night.

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your hotel in Dubrovnik before checking out. Your unforgettable multi-country journey concludes, leaving you with cherished memories of the Balkans’ rich history, diverse cultures, and breathtaking landscapes.